HISTORY
Kia began exporting affordably priced
automobiles to North America from its home base in Korea back in 1993 and today
sells a cross-section of vehicles that share most of their mechanical
components with parent company Hyundai. For the 2001 model year, the automaker
introduced the Rio sedan, which was followed a year later by the Rio Cinco wagon.
Both body styles were redesigned for 2006 with the wagon name changing to Rio5.
Common to both was a 110-horsepower four-cylinder powerplant that was available
with a five-speed automatic transmission or optional four-speed automatic.
Following a six-year run, an all-new third-generation Rio series was launched for
the 2012 model year.
PRICES AT A GLANCE
Base Rio models are just that
and lacked what most buyers would consider essential accessories. Up-level
models likely won’t cost much more and will ultimately be the more satisfying
purchase.
THE GOOD STUFF
With a
starting price in the $11,000-$13,000 range when new, the Rio was one of the more
affordable models on the market and offered a strong alternative to purchasing
a used car. Although small in stature, the interior provided plenty of space
for four (five if back-seat occupants didn’t mind being crammed together) plus
their belongings. The more versatile Rio5 wagon was the hauler of the two and
was capable of transporting a considerable amount of gear with the rear seat
folded down (although the load floor was not flat). The four-cylinder engine
delivered reasonable torque for its size and either available transmission
worked well and shifted smoothly.
HEADS UP!
Urban
commuting and performing light-duty tasks was the Rio’s specialty. However hauling
heavy loads taxed the smallish engine and also adversely affected fuel economy
that was never the car’s strong suit in the first place. In addition, excessive
freeway speeds created plenty of unpleasant engine and road noise. Rios with manual
gearboxes did the best job at maximizing performance and fuel economy. The
Rio’s overall fit and finish was above average, but the materials used for the
interior displayed Kia’s
obvious cost-cutting measures.
OVERALL
The Rio might not be the
fanciest, the quickest or most fuel-saving sub-compact on the street, but for
car shoppers looking for cheap wheels, the Rio’s good looks, affordable
purchase price and overall cost of operation make it worthy of serious
consideration, especially for multi-vehicle households. Other sub-compacts
sharing the Rio’s pre-owned
price range include the Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa, Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit
and Toyota Yaris.
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